BANGKOK, 1 April 2013 (NNT) – The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation warned residents in 17 provinces nationwide to brace for tropical storms during the next two days.

The DDPM said that a high pressure cell from China colliding with a low pressure cell covering the upper part of Thailand is set to create tropical storms. 17 provinces in the North, Northeast and East including Tak, Sukhothai, Mae Hong Son and Phichit are expected to be hit by thunderstorms and strong winds.

Local DDPM units and provincial authorities are closely monitoring weather patterns and are preparing emergency relief for those affected.

Earlier this morning, over 2,000 households in Chiang Rai were damaged by a bout of tropical storms. Roofs were blown off, leaving residents exposed to heavy downpours. Most households have been without water or power for the past 24 hours.

Read more: NNT